Physiotherapy Treatment for Facial Nerve Palsy

Physiotherapy Treatment for Facial Nerve Palsy : This is a condition in which there is a lesion of the facial nerve and resultant paralysis in the muscles that it supplies. Itis also known as Bell’s Palsy. The cause is unknown. It can happen at any age, it is not gender specific, and often sudden. The patient may have a background history of earache or of been in draught. Often, the patient wakes up with withparalysis, having been perfectly okay the night before. The facial nerve becomes swollen and hyperemic within the facial canal, with limited space. The nerve rapidly becomes compressed, and conductivity is lost. Fifty per cent recover in a space of 3 months.

Clinical Features – on the side of the lesion

1. Closing the eye is difficult. 

2. Non-verbal communication is lost as the patient cannot register pleasure, laughter, surprise, interest, or worry.

3. Loss of facial expression.

4. Eating is difficult because food collects in the side of the cheek and fluids seep out of the corner of the mouth

5. Drooping of the face – lower eyelid, eyebrow, and corner of the mouth sag,e.t.c

Physiotherapy Treatment for Facial Nerve Palsy

1. A physiotherapist can work on the muscles affected to reduce the inflammation.

2. Physiotherapy sessions can help in maintain blood flow to prevent contractions.

3. Bathing the face frequently can be of help to avoid redness of the eye because the normal blinking reflex is lost and dust particles collect, producing conjunctivitis.

4. The Physiotherapist can move passively.

5. Physiotherapists can apply the quick stretch technique to regain the raising of the eyebrow and the movements of the corner of the mouth.

6. We give helpful exercise to regain whistling, sucking etc

It is possible to stay home to ‘let nature take its course ‘ because so many make a complete recovery. However, this attitude does not help those whose paralysis persists beyond 3 months. It is a serious handicap within society, and some people become withdrawn and depressed. It is not easy for individuals with facial paralysis to run a business or perform work that demands inter-personal communication, and it is devastating for people such as television presenters or stage and film actors.

With EFFECTIVE PHYSIOTHERAPY & FITNESS CLINIC, there is no doubt about not recovering from Bell’s Palsy (Facial Nerve Palsy), especially with quick, urgent, and immediate intervention. Full recovery is usually achievable and easily accomplished with quick intervention from physiotherapists.         

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